Antonio Lauro was born in Venezuela in 1917, and having studied piano and violin, changed musical direction after hearing the legendary guitarist, Agustin Barrios. Though Lauro became an outstanding exponent of the guitar, he insisted that he was a composer and not a performer. His style was based on a national folk music heritage, resulting in a catalogue of works with a distinctly popular nature. Often witty, charming, wistful and colourful, the music’s lyrical attractions fall easily on the ear. During his later life he became a much sought-after teacher, and was presented with the Premio national de música, Venezuela’s highest artistic award.